Communicate your research effectively and concisely.

I-RITE/I-SPEAK is a Stanford program that teaches graduate students and postdocs to prepare and deliver highly understandable, compelling oral and written accounts of their research for non-specialized audiences. Developed at Stanford, this hands-on seminar trains participants in writing and speaking a one-minute oral summary. Applications from all research fields, including the humanities and social sciences, are highly encouraged.

The completed material can be used in proposals, grant applications, presentations, and informal conversations with professional and personal contacts. In today's academic and work environments, it is crucial to be able to describe what you do quickly and succinctly to lay audiences.

Participants work with novel techniques that cover a range of issues in the writing and speaking process; from assumptions about your audience to peer reviewing and oral presentation techniques. Topics include interpersonal and public speaking, adapting to various audiences, and using metaphors and analogies for clarity and effective description. As a result of this time-efficient and focused approach, participants will develop greater confidence during informal conversations with professional and personal contacts.

The next I-RITE/I-SPEAK program will be held this summer for the SGSI session, September 8 - 11, 2009. This session is currently full, but it will likely be offered on an annual basis.

For more information, contact the instructor: Dr. Marianne Neuwirth at neuwirth@stanford.edu .

TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST I-RITE/I-SPEAK PARTICIPANTS

 “I learned that I can actually talk about my research to nonspecialized audiences through the use of analogies and improved presentation skills.”

“Extremely compact and useful class.”

“Giving feedback to others on how to improve prompts you to think about how you can improve.”

“The sessions really made me consciously consider what I write and say from my audience’s point of view.”

“I will recommend this program to all PhD students. As scientists, we have a responsibility to convey our message and findings clearly to society.”

Sponsored by the Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Education.